Hamilton's Championship Advice to Norris Revealed Ahead of Abu Dhabi Decider

Lewis Hamilton disclosed the championship-caliber advice he gave Lando Norris before the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: maintain authenticity and focus on incremental progress. Norris executed this approach to perfection, finishing third behind Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri to clinch his first world title in a season-long battle that went down to the final race.

Why it matters:

• Norris became the first British driver to win the championship since Hamilton in 2014, ending a decade-long drought for UK drivers
• McLaren secured its first drivers' championship since Hamilton's 2008 title, marking the team's full resurgence after 16 years
• The mentorship highlights F1's evolving culture where veterans actively support younger drivers' mental resilience

The Details:

• Hamilton emphasized consistency over change: "Just continue doing you. What you've been doing works, so don't change it. Go into the weekend and just take it one corner at a time."
• Norris implemented this philosophy after a documented mental reset during summer break, showing improved pressure management in the second half of the season
• Mental Health Context: When addressing Norris' openness about psychological challenges, Hamilton validated vulnerability as strength: "It's great that people can show their vulnerability. It's a real thing in today's world. It should be taken seriously."
• The advice carried historical weight - Hamilton noted McLaren hadn't won a drivers' title since his own 2008 championship, calling it "great to see McLaren back up there"
• Norris' championship capped a season where he transformed from early-season errors to championship-caliber consistency, particularly after mid-season adjustments

What's next:

Hamilton's transition to Ferrari enters a critical phase after a debut season where he finished sixth overall, 86 points behind teammate Charles Leclerc. His role as a statesman for driver wellbeing may grow as F1 expands its mental health initiatives.

• Norris now faces the challenge of defending his title against Verstappen's Red Bull resurgence, with McLaren's 2025 car development already focused on sustaining championship form
• The sport gains a new British champion during a golden era for UK motorsport, potentially inspiring the next generation amid rising stars like Oliver Bearman
• Hamilton's leadership approach could set a template for veteran-driver mentorship as F1's competitive landscape evolves with new regulations and team dynamics